Opening device for a packaging, mold, and, packaging filled and / or prefillable with a removable product

Description

24 OPENING DEVICE FOR A PACKAGING, MOLD, AND PACKAGING FILLED AND / OR FILLABLE WITH A POURABLE PRODUCT TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] The present invention relates to an opening device for a package, preferably a package having a main body formed from a multi-layered packaging material, filled with a pourable product, more particularly filled with a pourable food product.

[002] In addition, the present invention also relates to a mold for forming an opening device for a package, preferably a package having a main body formed from a multi-layered packaging material, filled with a pourable product, even more particularly filled with a pourable food product.

[003] Advantageously, the present invention also relates to a package, preferably a package having a main body formed from a multi-layered packaging material, filled with a pourable product, even more particularly filled with a pourable food product, and comprising an opening device. FUNDAMENTALS OF THE TECHNIQUE

[004] As is well known, many liquid or pourable food products, such as fruit juice, milk, milk-based drinks, liquid yogurt, wine, tomato sauce, salt, sugar, etc., are sold in packaging, in particular sealed packaging, made of a sterilized packaging material.

[005] A typical example is the parallelepiped-shaped packaging for pourable food products, known as Tetra. Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 12 / 46 / 24 Brik Aseptic (registered trademark) is made by sealing and folding a laminated strip packaging material. The packaging material has a multi-layered structure comprising a base layer of cardboard and / or paper, covered on both sides with layers of heat-sealable plastic material, for example, layers of polyethylene. In the case of aseptic packaging for long-term storage products, the packaging material also comprises a layer of oxygen barrier material, for example, aluminum foil, which is overlaid on a layer of heat-sealable plastic material and, in turn, is covered with another layer of heat-sealable plastic material, forming the inner face of the packaging, eventually coming into contact with the food product.

[006] Thus, this type of packaging comprises a main body formed from a multi-layered packaging material and has a designated pouring opening, which allows the pouring of the product from the packaging, and an opening device arranged around the designated pouring opening. The opening device is designed to seal the packaging before a first opening of the opening device.

[007] Some packaging variants comprise a main body having a sloping top wall, that is, the top wall of the main body is inclined relative to a bottom wall of the main body. Thus, the opening device is connected to the inclined top wall.

[008] In more detail, each opening device comprises a closing element configured to close the designated discharge opening and being breakably connected to an inner surface of a collar of the opening device and a cap being removablely attached to the collar and being movable between a closed and an open position. Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 13 / 46 / 24 open. Furthermore, the opening device comprises a coupling element connected to the closing element and the cover, such that a movement of the cover from the closed position to the open position leads to a rupture of the closing element and a separation of the closing element from the collar.

[009] Known opening devices comprise leg elements interposed between a main wall of the closing element and the coupling element. The leg elements are arranged symmetrically with respect to a plane of symmetry that intersects two of the leg elements.

[0010] Although currently known opening devices provide good results, there is a perceived need in the industry to further improve opening devices and / or packaging. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Therefore, an objective of the present invention is to provide an improved opening device for a package, preferably a package having a main body formed from a multi-layered packaging material, filled with a pourable product, even more preferably filled with a pourable food product.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a mold for molding an opening device for a package, preferably a package having a main body formed from a multi-layered packaging material, filled with a pourable product, even more preferably filled with a pourable food product.

[0013] A further objective of the present invention is to provide an improved packaging, preferably a packaging having a main body formed from a multi-layered packaging material. Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 14 / 46 / 24 layers, filled with a pourable product, preferably filled with a pourable food product, having an opening device.

[0014] According to the present invention, an opening device and packaging are provided according to the respective independent claims.

[0015] Other advantageous embodiments of the opening device and packaging are specified in the claims directly or indirectly, depending on the respective independent claim.

[0016] According to the present invention, a mold according to claim 8 is also provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] A non-limiting embodiment of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a package having an opening device according to the present invention, with parts removed for clarity; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the packaging shown in Figure 1, focusing on a detail of the opening device, with parts removed for clarity; Figure 3 is an enlarged top view of the detail of the opening device from Figure 2, with parts removed for clarity; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the detail in Figure 3, with parts removed for clarity; and Figure 5 is a perspective view of some portions of the detail in Figure 3, with parts removed for clarity. BEST WAYS TO CARRY OUT THE INVENTION

[0018] The number 1 indicates as a whole a package (shown only partially to the extent necessary for understanding the present invention) comprising: Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 15 / 46 / 24 - a main body 2, preferably a main body formed from a multi-layered packaging material, being filled and / or capable of being filled with a pourable product, preferably a pourable food product, and preferably having a designated pouring opening (not shown and known as such) configured to allow an efflux of the pourable product from the main body 2; and - an opening device 3, preferably formed from a polymeric material, coupled to the main body 2 around the designated discharge opening and configured to seal the designated discharge opening and be controllable so as to open the designated discharge opening and allow the discharge of the dischargeable product.

[0019] The dischargeable product may be milk, tomato sauce, milk-based drinks, yogurt-based drinks, yogurt, water, sugar, salt, juices, emulsions and the like.

[0020] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the packaging material may comprise at least one layer of fibrous material, such as, for example, a layer of paper or cardboard, and at least two layers of heat-sealable plastic material, for example, layers of polyethylene, interposed with the layer of fibrous material. One of these two layers of heat-sealable plastic material may define the inner face of the main body 2 in contact with the dischargeable product.

[0021] Preferably, the packaging material may also comprise a layer of gas and light barrier material, for example, aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, in particular arranged between one of the layers of heat-sealable plastic material and the layer of fibrous material. Preferably, but not necessarily, the packaging material may also comprise Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 16 / 46 / 24 an additional layer of heat-sealable plastic material being interposed between the gas and light barrier material layer and the fibrous material layer.

[0022] Preferably, each package 1, preferably the respective main body 2, can be obtained from a respective blank packaging piece of multilayer packaging material. Preferably, the blank packaging piece can define a precursor of the respective package 1, in particular the respective main body 2.

[0023] In more detail, the respective bulk packaging piece may comprise the respective designated discharge opening. According to some possible embodiments, the respective designated discharge opening may be covered by a separation membrane. The separation membrane may be formed from a gas barrier material, preferably the separation membrane may be defined by a layer portion of the gas and light barrier material.

[0024] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the multi-layer packaging material may be provided in the form of a continuous sheet, such that the packaging blanks may be arranged successively relative to one another. During packaging formation 1, the continuous sheet is formed into a tube, sealed longitudinally, filled with the pourable product and sealed transversely and cut into portions from opposite ends of the packaging blanks.

[0025] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, a portion of each opening device 3 may be applied, preferably molded, to the respective main body 2 or to the respective blank packaging piece. Preferably, each opening device 3 may be Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 17 / 46 / 24 molded onto the respective raw packaging piece and around the designated discharge opening. In particular, and as will be explained further below, a first portion of the opening device 3 may be molded onto the respective raw packaging piece and a second portion may be applied to the first portion after the molding of the first portion.

[0026] With particular reference to Figures 1 and 2, the main body 2 may extend along a longitudinal geometric axis A, a first transverse geometric axis B perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axis A, and a second transverse geometric axis C perpendicular to the first transverse geometric axis B and to the longitudinal geometric axis A. Preferably, the size of the package 2 along the longitudinal geometric axis A may be larger than the size of the package 2 along the first transverse geometric axis B and the second transverse geometric axis C.

[0027] Preferably, the main body 2 can have the shape of a parallelepiped.

[0028] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the main body 2 may comprise a first wall (not shown and known as such), preferably transverse, more preferably perpendicular, to the longitudinal geometric axis A, from which the main body 2 may extend along the longitudinal geometric axis A. Preferably, the first wall may define a support surface for the packaging 1, preferably the main body 2, which may be designed to be placed in contact with a support, such as, for example, a shelf, when in use, being, for example, displayed within a point of sale or when stored. Preferably, when arranged on the support, the first wall may define a back wall.

[0029] Preferably, the main body 2 can also Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 18 / 46 / 24, includes a side wall 4 being (fixedly) connected to the first wall and extending, along the longitudinal geometric axis A, from the first wall.

[0030] Preferably, the main body 2 may also comprise a second wall 5 opposite the first wall and be (fixedly) connected to the side wall 4.

[0031] Preferably, side wall 4 can be interposed between the first wall and the second wall 5.

[0032] Preferably, the second wall 5 can define a top wall of the package 1, for example, when the package 1 is arranged on a support.

[0033] According to the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first wall and the second wall 5 may be inclined relative to each other. In particular, the second wall 5 may be inclined relative to the first wall and / or to the longitudinal geometric axis A.

[0034] In particular, the second wall 5 can define a sloping top or it can define a gable-top type portion.

[0035] Alternatively, the first wall and the second wall 5 may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0036] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the second wall 5 may carry and / or comprise the designated discharge opening and the opening device 3 may be connected to the second wall 5.

[0037] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the packaging 1, preferably the main body 2, may comprise an internal space configured to contain and / or containing the pourable product. In particular, the first wall, the side wall 4 and the second wall 5 may delimit the internal space.

[0038] According to some preferred modalities not Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 19 / 46 / 24 limiting, the second wall 5 may comprise a transverse enclosure portion 6, for example, extending transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the longitudinal geometric axis A and / or parallel to the second transverse geometric axis C.

[0039] In particular, the cross-sealing portion 6 results from the cross-sealing and cutting of the tube from which the main body 2 is formed during production.

[0040] Additionally, each package 1, preferably the main body 2, may comprise a longitudinal seal 16. The longitudinal seal 16 may, for example, result from the overlapping and longitudinal sealing of the longitudinal edges of the continuous sheet of packaging material.

[0041] With particular reference to Figures 1 and 2, the opening device 3 may comprise a coupling portion 7 connected to the main body 2 around the designated discharge opening and a cover 8 coupled to the coupling portion 7.

[0042] In particular, coupling portion 7 can define the first portion and cover 8 can define the second portion of opening device 3.

[0043] With particular reference to Figures 2 to 4, the opening device 3, preferably the coupling portion 7, may comprise a collar 9 extending along a central geometric axis E and, preferably, may define and / or delimit a flow channel 10.

[0044] In addition, collar 9 can be aligned with respect to the designated dump opening.

[0045] In use, the dischargeable product flows from the internal space of the main body 2 to the flow channel 10 and out of the flow channel 10.

[0046] More specifically, flow channel 10 can extend between a dump outlet 11 (from collar 9) configured to allow the Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 20 / 46 / 24 spillage of the pourable product and an inlet 12 (of collar 9) configured to allow the introduction of the pourable product into the flow channel 10.

[0047] Preferably, the cover 8 can be connected to the collar 9 and can be configured to selectively open and close the discharge outlet 11. Preferably, the cover 8 can be movable between a closed position and an open position, in which the cover 8 respectively closes and opens the discharge outlet 11, so as to respectively prevent and allow the efflux of the dischargeable product from the flow channel 10.

[0048] More preferably, the cover 8 can be angularly movable around a geometric articulation axis G. More specifically, the cover 8 can be angularly movable around the geometric articulation axis G so as to move the cover 8 between the closed position and the open position.

[0049] In more detail, cover 8 can be in a first angular position relative to the geometric axis of articulation G when in the closed position and in a second angular position relative to the geometric axis of articulation G when in the open position.

[0050] With particular reference to Figure 2, the opening device 3 may also comprise a coupling ring 14 coupled to and encircling the collar 9.

[0051] In addition, cover 8 can be hinged to coupling ring 14.

[0052] In addition, the opening device 3 may comprise a hinge 15 that articulates the cover 8 to the coupling ring 14. The hinge 15 may define the geometric axis of articulation G.

[0053] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the opening device 3, preferably the coupling portion 7, may comprise a base frame 13 that fixes and / or is Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 21 / 46 / 24 configured to attach the opening device 3 to the packaging 1, preferably to the main body 2, more preferably to the second wall 5, and around the designated discharge opening.

[0054] Preferably, collar 9 may extend from base frame 13.

[0055] In more detail, the base frame 13 can be connected to an edge delimiting the designated discharge opening.

[0056] With particular reference to Figures 2 to 5, the opening device 3, preferably the coupling portion 7, comprises a closing element 20 configured to close and / or that closes the designated discharge opening.

[0057] In more detail, the closing element 20 can be controllable between an active position (see Figures 2 to 4) in which the closing element 20 is configured to cover and / or close the designated discharge opening and an inactive position (not shown) in which the closing element 20 can be configured to release the designated discharge opening. Before the first movement of the closing element 20 from the active position to the inactive position, the closing element 20 is configured to seal the designated discharge opening and the internal space of the main body 2. After the first movement of the closing element 20 from the active position to the inactive position, it may be possible to place the closing element 20 back in the active position to cover (but not seal) the designated discharge opening.

[0058] In more detail, the closing element 20 can be connected in a breakable and / or removable manner to an internal surface 21 of the collar 9. Furthermore, after being moved from the active position to the inactive position for the first time, the closing element 20 loses the breakable and / or removable connection with the internal surface 21 and, for example, after being placed back in the active position, the closing element 20 enters into Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 22 / 46 / 24 contact only with the inner surface 21.

[0059] Preferably, the closure element 20 can be made as a single piece together with the collar 9.

[0060] In more detail, the locking element 20 can be connected to the collar 9, preferably to the inner surface 21 of the collar 9, by a breakable portion 19 that is irreversibly broken when the locking element 20 is moved from the active position to the inactive position for the first time.

[0061] In more detail, the closing element 20 may be arranged within the flow channel 10, particularly when it is in the active position.

[0062] Preferably, the closing element 20 can be positioned coaxially with respect to the collar 9 and / or the central geometric axis E.

[0063] With particular reference to Figures 2 to 5, the closing element 20 may comprise a main wall 22 configured to cover the designated discharge opening and fixed in a removable and / or breakable manner to the collar 9.

[0064] More specifically, the central geometric axis E can be perpendicular to the closing element 20, preferably to the main wall 22.

[0065] Preferably, the closing element 20 may also comprise a plurality of radially extending ridge elements 23, in the specific case shown three.

[0066] More specifically, the main wall 22 may comprise a peripheral portion 24, preferably having an annular shape, more preferably circular.

[0067] In addition, the main wall 22 may also comprise a center 25. Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 23 / 46 / 24

[0068] In more detail, each ridge element 23 can extend along a respective longitudinal geometric axis F from the peripheral portion 24 towards the center 25.

[0069] Preferably, each ridge element 23 can be an integral part of the main wall 22.

[0070] Preferably, each ridge element 23 may project from the main wall 22 towards the discharge outlet 11.

[0071] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, each ridge element 23 may comprise a first end 30 and a second end 31 opposite the first end 32. Each first end 30 may be arranged in the peripheral portion 24. Preferably, each second end 31 may be distanced from the center 25 (i.e., each ridge element 23 does not extend to the center 25, even though it is adjacent to the center 25).

[0072] According to the example shown, two ridge elements 23 can be connected to each other at their respective second ends 31.

[0073] Preferably, the main wall 22 may comprise a first face 32 and a second face 33 opposite the first face 32. In particular, the first face 32 and the second face 33 are configured to face away from and towards the designated discharge opening, respectively.

[0074] Preferably, the opening device 3 can be shaped so that the separation membrane is removed from the continuous sheet of conditioning material and adheres to the zones of the first face 32.

[0075] Preferably, each ridge element 23 may extend from the first face 32.

[0076] In more detail, each ridge element 23 may comprise an elongated top portion, preferably extending to Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, p. 24 / 46 / 24 along the respective longitudinal geometric axis F, two flanks extending laterally from the top portion (and being inclined in relation to the top portion) and a frontal portion (in particular, extending from the top portion at the respective second end 31 of the respective ridge element 32).

[0077] Preferably, the ridge elements 23 can be angularly displaced from each other around the central geometric axis E. More preferably, the ridge elements 23 can be unevenly distributed around the central geometric axis E.

[0078] According to the example shown, the closing element 20 can comprise at least three ridge elements 23 or exactly three ridge elements 23.

[0079] With particular reference to Figures 2 to 5, the opening device 3, preferably the coupling portion 7, may comprise a connecting structure 37 connected to the closing element 20, preferably to the main wall 22, more preferably to the first face 32 and to the cover 8. Preferably, the connecting structure 37 may be connected to the peripheral portion 24.

[0080] Preferably, the connecting structure 37 can couple the closing element 20, preferably the main wall 22, to the cover 8, so that any movement of the cover 8 results in a simultaneous movement of the closing element 20. For example, the movement of the cover 8 between the closed position and the open position results in the movement of the closing element 20 between the active position and the inactive position.

[0081] It should be noted that, in Figure 2, the cover 8 is in the open position, while the closing element 20 is in the active position and the connecting structure 37 is not fixed to the cover 8. This, however, is only for representational purposes within the description of the present application, as such a situation does not occur for an actual opening device 3. In Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 25 / 46 / 24 in particular, Figure 2 is represented to emphasize a particular aspect of the present solution, which will be explained later.

[0082] Preferably, the connection structure 37 can be integrally connected to the closing element 20, preferably to the main wall 22, more preferably to the peripheral portion 24.

[0083] Preferably, the collar 9, the closing element 20, the base frame 13 and the connecting structure 37 can be formed integrally, in particular by means of a molten polymer molding process.

[0084] Preferably, the collar 9, the closing element 20, the base frame 13 and the connecting structure 37 can be formed during a molding process, more preferably during the molding of the opening device 3 in the respective raw packaging piece.

[0085] In addition, the cap 8 can be attached to the collar 9 after the formation of the collar 9 and the closing element 20.

[0086] In addition, cover 8 can be sealed and / or fused and / or glued to the connecting structure 37 after applying cover 8 to the collar 9.

[0087] With particular reference to Figures 4 and 5, the opening device 3, preferably connecting the structure 37, may further comprise a plurality of leg elements 38 connected to and extending from the closing element 20, preferably the main wall 22, more preferably the peripheral portion 24.

[0088] Preferably, the leg elements 38 can be made as a single piece together with the closing element 20, preferably also together with the connecting structure 37.

[0089] In more detail, the leg 38 elements can be angularly displaced from each other around the central geometric axis E. Preferably, the leg 38 elements can be unevenly distributed around the central geometric axis E. Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 26 / 46 / 24

[0090] Preferably, the leg elements 38 may project from the closing element 20, preferably from the main wall 22, more preferably from the peripheral portion 24, towards the discharge outlet 11 and / or substantially parallel to the central geometric axis E and / or to the collar 9.

[0091] More specifically, each leg element 38 can be integrally connected to the closing element 20, preferably to the main wall 22, more preferably to the peripheral portion 24.

[0092] In addition, each leg element 38 may comprise a first terminal portion connected to the closing element 20 and a second terminal portion opposite the respective first terminal portion.

[0093] Preferably, the opening device 3, preferably the coupling portion 7, may comprise a coupling body, in particular a coupling ring 39, connected (integrally) to the leg elements 38, preferably the respective second terminal portions. Furthermore, the coupling ring 39 may be connected, preferably sealed and / or glued and / or fused, to the cover 8.

[0094] With particular reference to Figures 4 and 5, each ridge element 23 can be associated with a corresponding leg element 38. Preferably, each ridge element 23 and its corresponding leg element 38 can be connected to each other. More preferably, each ridge element 23 can come into contact with its corresponding first terminal portion.

[0095] In more detail, each ridge element 23 may extend from a respective leg element 38 and towards the center 25 and / or may come into contact with the respective leg element 38.

[0096] Preferably, the number of leg elements 38 can be equal to the number of summit elements 23.

[0097] According to some preferred modalities not Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, p. 27 / 46 / 24 limiting factors, each leg element 38 can be arranged in the same angular position relative to the central geometric axis E as a respective ridge element 23.

[0098] Furthermore, one of the leg elements 38 may be farther from the geometric axis of articulation G and / or articulation 15 than the other leg elements 38. We will now distinguish this specific leg element 38, referring to it as the main leg element 38a.

[0099] It should be noted that the main leg element 38a is the leg element that, when the cover 8 starts to be controlled from the closed position to the open position for the first time, is subject to greater stress compared to the other leg elements 38.

[00100] The position of each leg element 38 can be defined in terms of an angular distance from the geometric axis of articulation G and / or articulation 15 in relation to the central geometric axis E. The geometric axis of articulation G and / or articulation 15 can be considered as being arranged in a determined angular position and the respective angular distance of each leg element 38 (38a) from the geometric axis of articulation G and / or articulation 15 can be intended as being the difference between the determined angular position and the angular position of the specific leg element 38 (38a).

[00101] With reference to the specific example shown, if, for example, the geometric axis of articulation G (and consequently of articulation 15) is considered to be arranged in the determined angular position, the leg element 38a will be arranged in an angular position of 180° from the determined angular position with respect to the central geometric axis E and, consequently, the angular distance between the geometric axis of articulation G and the leg element 38a will be equal to 180°. Furthermore, the leg element 38 facing the leg element 38a Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 28 / 46 / 24 is arranged at an angular position of 0° from the angular position determined in relation to the central geometric axis E and, consequently, the annular distance between the geometric axis of articulation G and / or articulation 15 and the leg element 38 facing the leg element 38a is 0°. Furthermore, the third leg element 38 shown in the non-limiting specific example is arranged at an angular position of approximately 70° from the angular position determined in relation to the central geometric axis E and, consequently, the distance between the geometric axis of articulation G and / or articulation 15 and the third leg element 38 is equal to 70°.

[00102] Therefore, the main leg element 38a is the leg element 38 that is furthest from the geometric axis of articulation G and / or from articulation 15. In particular, it is understood that the greatest possible distance of a leg element 38 from the geometric axis of articulation G and / or from articulation 15 is 180°.

[00103] Furthermore, the main leg element 38a can be associated with a first portion of the collar 9 and the geometric articulation axis G and / or the articulation 15 can be associated with a second portion of the collar 9. In particular, the first portion and the second portion are opposite each other with respect to the central geometric axis E and / or center 25.

[00104] Furthermore, the main leg element 38a can be intersected by an intersection plane H comprising the central geometric axis E. Preferably, the ridge element 23 associated (e.g., connected) with the main leg element 38a can also be intersected by the intersection plane H and the intersection plane H can also comprise the respective longitudinal geometric axis F.

[00105] Preferably, the main leg element 38a can be symmetrical with respect to the intersection plane H. More preferably, the respective ridge element 23 associated with the ridge element 23 can also be symmetrical with respect to the intersection plane H. Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 29 / 46 / 24

[00106] Advantageously, the leg 38 elements (including the main leg element 38a) can be arranged asymmetrically with respect to each other and with respect to the intersection plane H.

[00107] In more detail, the main leg element 38a can be arranged in a first angular position 26 with respect to the central geometric axis E.

[00108] In addition, the opening device 3 may comprise a second leg element 38, arranged in a second angular position 28 with respect to the central geometric axis E.

[00109] In addition, the opening device 3 may comprise a third leg element 38, arranged in a third angular position 27 with respect to the central geometric axis E.

[00110] Preferably, leg element 38a can be defined to be arranged in an angular position of 0°. Furthermore, following such a definition and assuming that a position angle increases counterclockwise when viewing leg elements 38 (38a) and closing element 20 from the top, a second position angle corresponding to the second angular position 28 can be greater than a first position angle corresponding to the first angular position 26 and less than a third position angle corresponding to the third angular position 27.

[00111] Preferably, an angular distance between the first angular position 26 and the second angular position 28 can vary from 85° to 135°, preferably from 100° to 120°.

[00112] In the example shown, the angular difference between the first angular position 26 and the second angular position 28 can be substantially equal to 110°.

[00113] Preferably, an angular difference between the first angular position 26 and the third angular position 27 can vary from 160° to 210°, preferably from 170° to 190°. Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 30 / 46 / 24

[00114] In the example shown, the angular difference between the first angular position 26 and the third angular position 27 is substantially equal to 180°.

[00115] According to the example shown, the intersection plane H intersects a second leg 38 element (also indicated with 38b in Figures 4 and 5), preferably the second leg 38 element (38b) being symmetrical with respect to the intersection plane H.

[00116] Preferably, the ridge element 23 being associated with the main leg element 38a can be arranged in the first angular position 26 as well.

[00117] Furthermore, a ridge element 23 can be arranged in the second angular position 28 and, preferably, an additional ridge element 23 can be arranged in the third angular position 27.

[00118] Advantageously, a free zone 29 of the opening device 3 can be defined as a zone that is free of any leg elements 38. In the example shown, the free zone 29 extends from the third angular position 27 to the first angular position 26.

[00119] Furthermore, the leg elements 38 (including 38a) are arranged in an occupied zone 34. In the example shown, the occupied zone 34 extends from the first angular position 26 to the third angular position 27.

[00120] Preferably, as explained above, an angular difference between the third angular position 27 and the first angular position 26 is equal to at least 160° (i.e., this angular difference is equal to or greater than 160°).

[00121] In other words, the free zone 29 extends along an angular length of at least 160°.

[00122] In particular, as explained above, leg element 38a can be defined to be arranged in an angular position of 0°. Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, p. 31 / 46 / 24 Furthermore, following such definition and assuming that a position angle increases in a counterclockwise direction when viewing leg elements 38 (38a) and closing element 20 from the top, the position angle corresponding to any position of the free zone 29 (extending between the third angular position 27 and the first angular position 26) is greater than a position angle corresponding to the third angular position 27, i.e., the third position angle as defined previously.

[00123] According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the opening device 3 may comprise only two leg elements 38 (including the main leg element 38a). According to such embodiment, the occupied zone 34 may be defined between the first angular position 26 and the second angular position 28 and the free zone 29 may be defined between the second angular position 28 and the first angular position 26.

[00124] Preferably, the opening device 3, preferably the coupling portion 7, can be arranged so that the free zone 29 (being devoid of any leg elements 38) can be closer to a center of the second wall 5 and / or the transverse sealing portion 6 than the occupied zone 34 (being provided with leg elements 38).

[00125] Therefore, according to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, a portion of main wall 22 devoid of any ridge elements 23 is associated with the free zone 29.

[00126] Similarly, according to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, a portion of the main wall 22 being provided with ridge element 23 is associated with the occupied zone 34.

[00127] With particular reference to Figure 1, the cover 8 may comprise a cover portion 40 configured to cover and / or covering the discharge outlet 11 and a gripping rim 41 projecting radially from the cover portion 40 and configured to facilitate the Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 32 / 46 / 24 movement of cover 8 from the closed position to the open position.

[00128] Preferably, the main leg element 38a may be closer to the gripping edge 41 than the other leg element(s) 38.

[00129] Preferably, the gripping rim 41 may extend radially along a direction substantially parallel to the transverse sealing portion 6, particularly with the cover 8 in the closed position.

[00130] Preferably, the gripping rim 41 can be configured to be engaged by a user when moving the cover 8 from the closed position to the open position.

[00131] It should be noted that each package 1 may be immediately after its formation arranged in an initial configuration in which the lid 8 and the closing element 20 may be respectively in the closed and active positions. The package 1 may be distributed and / or sold to a user while in the initial configuration.

[00132] In use, a user receives package 1 with lid 8 and closing element 20 being respectively in the closed and active positions, so as to cover respectively the discharge outlet 11 and the designated discharge outlet.

[00133] Before the first check of the cover 8 from the closed position to the open position and of the closing element 20 from the active position to the inactive position, the closing element 20 is fixed, i.e., integrally, to the inner surface 21.

[00134] To access the pourable product, the user needs to move the lid 8 from the closed position to the open position, which causes the closing element 20 to move from the active position to the inactive position. In this way, the breakable portion is broken and the closing element 20 is removed from the inner surface 21. This then allows the Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 33 / 46 / 24 dischargeable product flows from the internal space through flow channel 10 and exits flow channel 10 through discharge outlet 11.

[00135] Each time the closing element 20 is rearranged in the active position (by moving the cover 8 to the closed position), the closing element 20 covers the designated discharge opening.

[00136] According to another aspect of the present invention, the opening device 3 can be coupled to the main body 2 by means of a molding process. In particular, the opening device 3 can be coupled to the main body 2 by molding the first portion of the opening device 3 to the respective blank packaging piece.

[00137] For this purpose, it is necessary to provide a mold, which is configured to allow the molding of the opening device 3 into the main body 2 and / or the packaging blank. In more detail, the mold can be configured to allow the molding and forming of the first portion of the opening device 3.

[00138] In particular, the mold can be configured to allow the formation of the base frame 13, collar 9, closing element 20 and connection structure 37.

[00139] The advantages of the opening device 3 and / or the packaging 1 according to the present invention will become clear from the preceding description.

[00140] In particular, the risk of splashing of the pourable product when the closing element 20 is controlled from the active to the inactive position for the first time is reduced because the leg elements 38, being asymmetrical, exert a progressive traction action on the closing element 22. Furthermore, the closing element 22 is progressively deformed during the opening phase.

[00141] Furthermore, by providing asymmetrical leg elements 38, it is possible to reduce the overall stiffness of the assembly formed by the element of Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 34 / 46 / 24 closure 22, leg elements 38 and cover 8.

[00142] Furthermore, the risk of splashing is reduced due to the fact that, due to the asymmetrical arrangement of the leg elements 38, the point where the connection of the closing element 20 with the collar 9 finally breaks can be controlled so as to remain in a desired position.

[00143] An additional advantage lies in the fact that the portion of the opening device 3 that has the free zone 29 can be removed from the inner surface 21 after the occupied zone 34. This allows for a further reduction in the risk of splashing, particularly for packages 1 with a sloping top, in which the portions of the second wall 5 that are adjacent to the transverse sealing portion 6 are further from the bottom wall of the package than the portions of the second wall 5 further from the transverse sealing portion 6. In this case, the portion of the closing element 22 that is the last to be removed from the inner surface 21 is located in the free zone 29.

[00144] Furthermore, the total energy released to package 1 and its contents during the separation of the closure element 20 from the collar 9 is lower compared to known solutions.

[00145] In addition, the risk of splashing due to the occurrence of a spring-loaded return of the packaging 1 after the first time control of the closing element 20 from the active to the inactive position is mitigated.

[00146] Clearly, changes can be made to the opening device 3 and / or the packaging 1, as described in this document, without, however, departing from the scope of protection as defined in the appended claims. Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, pages 35 / 46

Claims

1 / 6 CLAIMS 1. Opening device (3) for a package (1) having a designated discharge opening and being filled with a dischargeable product; characterized in that the opening device (3) comprises: - a collar (9) having a central geometric axis (E) and a discharge outlet (11); - a cap (8) connected to the collar (9) and angularly movable around a geometric articulation axis (G) between a closed position and an open position in which the cap (8) respectively closes and opens the discharge outlet (11); - a closing element (20) configured to close the designated discharge opening, being made as a single piece together with the collar (9) and being removablely and / or breakable fixed to the collar (9); - a plurality of leg elements (38) connected to and projecting from the closing element (20) and being coupled to the cap (8);wherein one main leg element (38a) of the plurality of leg elements (38) is farther from the geometric axis of articulation (G) than the other leg elements (38); wherein the main leg element (38a) is intersected by an intersection plane (H) comprising the central geometric axis (E); wherein the leg elements (38; 38a) are arranged asymmetrically with respect to each other and with respect to the intersection plane (H).

2. Opening device according to claim 1, characterized in that the main leg element (38a) is symmetrical with respect to the intersection plane (H); or Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 36 / 46 2 / 6 wherein the main leg element (38a) and another leg element (38) are intersected and symmetrical with respect to the intersection plane (H).

3. Opening device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the main leg element (38a) is arranged in a first angular position (26) relative to the central geometric axis (E); wherein an additional leg element (38) is arranged in a second angular position (28) relative to the central geometric axis (E); wherein an angular difference between the first angular position (26) and the second angular position (28) varies between 85° and 135°.

4. Opening device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises three leg elements (38; 38a); wherein the main leg element (38a) is arranged in a first angular position (26) relative to the central geometric axis (E), a second leg element (38) is arranged in a second angular position (28) relative to the central geometric axis (E) and a third leg element (38) is arranged in a third angular position (27) relative to the central geometric axis (E); wherein the second angular position (28) is interposed between the first angular position (26) and the third angular position (27); wherein no additional leg element is arranged in an angular position interposed between the third angular position (27) and the first angular position (26).

5. Opening device according to claim 4, characterized in that an angular difference between the first angular position (26) and the third angular position (27) varies from 160° to 210°.

6. Opening device according to claim 5, Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 37 / 46 3 / 6 characterized in that the angular difference between the first angular position (26) and the third angular position (27) is substantially equal to 180°.

7. Opening device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the closing element (20) comprises: - a main wall (22) configured to cover the designated discharge opening and fixed in a removable and / or breakable manner to the collar (9); and - a plurality of radially extending ridge elements (23), each extending along a respective longitudinal geometric axis (F) and extending from a peripheral portion (24) of the main wall (22) towards a center (25) of the main wall (22); wherein each ridge element (23) is associated with a respective leg element (38, 38a); wherein the leg elements (38, 38a) extend from the peripheral portion (24);wherein the ridge element (23) associated with the main leg element (38a) is intercepted by the intersection plane (H), and the intersection plane (H) also includes the respective longitudinal geometric axis (F) of the ridge element (23).

8. Mold, characterized in that it is configured to allow the molding of the opening device (3) as defined in any of the preceding claims into a main body (2) of a package (1) for a pourable product and / or into a precursor of a package (1) for a pourable product.

9. Packaging (1) filled and / or fillable with a pourable product, characterized in that it comprises a main body (2) having a designated pour opening and being formed from a multi-layered composite packaging material and an opening device (3) coupled to the main body (2) and around the designated pour opening; the opening device (3) comprises: - a collar (9) having a central geometric axis (E) and a pour outlet (11); - a cap (8) connected to the collar (9) and angularly movable around a geometric articulation axis (G) between a closed position and an open position in which the cap (8) respectively closes and opens the pour outlet (11); - a closing element (20) configured to close the designated discharge opening, made as a single piece together with the collar (9) and being fixed in a removable and / or breakable manner to the collar (9);- a plurality of leg elements (38) connected and projecting from the closing element (20) and being coupled to the cover (8); wherein a main leg element (38a) of the plurality of leg elements (38) is farther from the geometric axis of articulation (G) than the other leg elements (38); wherein the main leg element (38a) is intercepted by an intersection plane (H) comprising the central geometric axis (E); wherein the leg elements (38; 38a) are arranged asymmetrically with respect to each other and with respect to the intersection plane (H).; 10. Packaging according to claim 9, characterized in that the main leg element (38a) is symmetrical with respect to the intersection plane (H); or in that the main leg element (38a) and another leg element (38) are intersected and symmetrical with respect to the intersection plane Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, page 39 / 46 5 / 6 (H).

11. Packaging according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the main leg element (38a) is arranged in a first angular position (26) relative to the central geometric axis (E); wherein an additional leg element (38) is arranged in a second angular position (28) relative to the central geometric axis (E); wherein an angular difference between the first angular position (26) and the second angular position (28) varies between 85° and 135°.

12. Packaging according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the opening device (3) comprises three leg elements (38, 38a); wherein the main leg element (38a) is arranged in a first angular position (26) relative to the central geometric axis (E), a second leg element (38) is arranged in a second angular position (28) relative to the central geometric axis (E) and a third leg element (38) is arranged in a third angular position (27) relative to the central geometric axis (E); wherein the second angular position (28) is interposed between the first angular position (26) and the third angular position (27); wherein no additional leg element is arranged in an angular position interposed between the third angular position (27) and the first angular position (26).

13. Packaging according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the opening device (3) comprises a free zone (29) devoid of any leg elements (38; 38a) and an occupied zone (34) comprising the leg elements (38; 38a); wherein the free zone (29) is delimited by the main leg element (38a) and an additional leg element (38); wherein an angular difference between the angular position of the additional leg element (38) and the angular position of the main leg element (38a) is equal to at least 160°; wherein the free zone (29) is closer to the transverse sealing portion (6) than the occupied zone (34).

14. Packaging according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that the closing element (20) comprises: - a main wall (22) configured to cover the designated discharge opening and fixed in a removable and / or breakable manner to the collar (9); and - a plurality of radially extending ridge elements (23), each extending along a respective longitudinal geometric axis (F) and extending from a peripheral portion (24) of the main wall (22) towards a center (25) of the main wall (22); wherein each ridge element (23) is associated with a respective leg element (38, 38a); wherein the leg elements (38, 38a) extend from the peripheral portion (24); wherein the ridge element (23) associated with the main leg element (38a) is intercepted by the intersection plane (H), and the intersection plane (H) also comprises the respective longitudinal geometric axis (F) of the ridge element (23).Petition 870250087029, dated 09 / 25 / 2025, pp. 41 / 46.

Images